The Air Jordan 39 Takes Flight in July
The 2024 NBA Playoffs kicked off this past weekend, and Jordan Brand have taken the opportunity to unveil what’s to come from the later this year. The flagship line gets its 39th iteration, and Orlando Magic All-Star Paolo Banchero rocked the Air Jordan 39 in Game 1 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Like the most recent Air Jordans of late, the AJ39 takes inspiration from the past, as it has blended the DNA from the and Air Jordan 29. The tongue features inspiration from the globe used on the heel of the AJ9 and zooms in to make a diamond pattern that sits behind the Jumpman.
While the AJ29 inspiration isn’t front and centre, the sneaker was used in research for the AJ39 development, with the help of Jordan Brand athletes and the Nike Sport Research Lab. The design team dipped the AJ29 in paint for athletes to wear test, and the areas that chipped showed where the sneaker needs support and flexibility. Taking the data found with NSRL, the Air Jordan 39 features a data-driven pattern on the textile upper for a better fit and flexibility without sacrificing containment.
As far as cushioning, the Jumpman brings a new setup and uses ZoomX, which is a first for any basketball performance sneaker. The cushy and propulsive ZoomX foam houses a full-length Zoom Air unit, so impact protection and responsiveness will not be an issue in the AJ39. A TPU stabiliser is used on the midfoot to help with rigidity, and herringbone is used in the AJ39 as well, as it can’t be beat when it comes to traction.
The Air Jordan 39 will launch on July 23, 2024 in the ‘Sol’ colourway, hitting Nike’s channels and select retailers. Additional colourways will follow in the coming months through mid-year 2025. Check out the photo of Paolo rocking the AJ39 ‘Sol’ above and keep it locked to Sneaker Freaker for any updates.